The week of July 13 to 17 I had the great pleasure of taking the Force Science Institute Certification Course in Calgary. This five day course is an intensive learning experience designed to educate investigators and trainers about the science of human dynamics as it relates to dynamic encounters. Under the direction of Dr. Bill Lewinski the Force Science Institute has done some critical research into this area. They have also done a great job of pulling together scientific research from a variety of disciplines which has been conducted over the past 40 years and examined how it applies to law enforcement professionals. Through their newsletters, seminars and now through their certification course Force Science presents this information in a manner that help us non-scientists understand why certain things happen in the middle of tense, uncertain and rapidly evolving events. Their research has saved good officers from going to jail for the lawful, but misunderstood use of force.
The Force Science Institute pulls together a group of presenters with impressive credentials and an excellent group of facilitators to make the five day certification course a powerful learning experience. Through the use of lectures covering the science and research, case studies and small group work they are able to help everyone in attendance gain an understanding of the science and how it applies to use of force investigations.
Now, if you are looking for a week off and think attending this course will provide that, find somewhere else to go. The course structure requires everyone to participate and to demonstrate an understanding of the material through group case studies, a case study presentation and a written exam.
The cost of the course is high at $1500.00 US, but well worth the investment. The Force Science Institute will be running another course October 26-30, 2009 at the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Training Center in Franklin, Wisconsin just outside of Milwaukee. If you are interested I would recommend you contact the Force Science Institute to see about securing a spot. This is an important course for the law enforcement community and the course will only get better with every one that is run.
Phone: (773) 481-4964
E-mail: training@forcescience.org
If you are interested in the course, but your agency will not cover the costs then do what I did and start saving early.
If you do not subscribe to the Force Science Institute newsletter please go to www.forcescience.organd sign up immediately. It is a must for all trainers.
Brian Willis
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